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Must-See Texas: Beautiful San Marcos Glass Bottom Boat Tour

A great way to view the diverse underwater world of spring lake..

Last updated Jul 24, 2023

The Texas Hill Country is filled with gorgeous, unexpected gems and interesting places – especially if you love being on the water! And the San Marcos glass bottom boat tour of Spring Lake is a unique combination of both natural beauty and educational opportunity.

This historic Texas activity was the highlight of our weekend.  And it is an easy day trip from San Antonio or Austin. After spending all day RV shopping on Saturday, we were craving some relaxing time outdoors. Plus, we totally lucked out with our own private tour!

Table of Contents

A Little History of Spring Lake in San Marcos Texas

Spring Lake is the headwaters of the San Marcos river. It is formed by more than 200 artesian springs , which have been active for millions of years! And humans have been living in the area since before the end of the last ice age.

The San Marcos Glass Bottom Boat Tour also has some nostalgic meaning to many Texans. This attraction is the only remaining part of the Aquarena Springs Theme Park.  The park included mermaids and swimming pigs, in addition to the San Marcos glass bottom boats. It opened in the 1950s and closed in the 90s.

Luckily, the nearby Texas State University purchased and restored this important area from closed-down amusement park to a place of natural beauty. And the glass bottom boat tour was brought back as  part of the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment . The main goal is now research, conservation and education, rather than quirky entertainment.

And protecting this area is an important endeavor! The pristine water is home to a diverse ecosystem including a few endangered species:  the Fountain Darter, Texas Blind Salamander, San Marcos Salamander and Texas Wild Rice.

What to Expect on Your San Marcos Glass Bottom Boat Tour

From outside the boat, the lake may not look like much more than a relaxing spot to float or paddle. However, there is an entire world under the water of Spring Lake waiting to be explored.

Your guide will make sure you learn all about this diverse ecosystem as he or she points out the many species. The glass bottom even magnifies what you can see in the crystal clear water – making it a fun spot for photography.  Our favorite sights were the turtles swimming awkwardly by and the hypnotic bubbling springs.

San Marcos Glass Bottom Boat Tour Prices & Times

The San Marcos Glass Bottom Boat Tours  run every day from 10:30a.m. to 3:30p.m., except for some holiday closures. The 30-minute tour is $9.75 per adult. While the 45-minute tour is $13.25 and takes you to additional springs. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard tours are also offered on Spring Lake. They even have a few glass-bottom kayaks!

We chose the extended version because we wanted to see more of beautiful Spring Lake. And we hoped it would have less people on it.  I’m not sure if it will work out for everyone, but this logic led to a boat all to ourselves!

Interesting Stories of Spring Lake

Our awesome guide told us so much about this area and multiple funny stories. We couldn’t possibly relay them all. But here are some of our favorites:

• The rich history of the area has made it great for archaeologists. Hundreds of artifacts from long-ago residents have been found, some of which can be seen in the Discovery Hall.
• Johnny Weissmuller, an Olympic swimmer and Tarzan actor, is said to have drank from one of the springs at the bottom of the lake after being dared. Apparently it was so deep he almost died trying. And he said it was like drinking out of a fire hydrant!
• According to a professor that helps with the conservation of Spring Lake, the best way to return a turtle to the water is to lightly skip it like a stone. If you just plop them in at the edge they will likely fall to the bottom, but skipping them lets them get to the open water where they will swim away. I can’t find anywhere that confirms this, but it was definitely intriguing!

Other Activities at the Meadows Center

Roof-Top Deck : During your visit make sure to head to the top of the Discovery Hall building to get a view from above. It is a great place to get a sneak-peek of what lives below the surface of Spring Lake.

Discovery Hall : Interested in more facts about this area and a look at a few harder-to-spot species? Wander through this educational area to check out the 1,000-gallon aquarium, interactive exhibits and archaeological findings. Plus, the endangered San Marcos Salamander and Texas Blind Salamander.

Scuba Diving : Divers in training can get their final certification in the pristine 72-degree waters of Spring Lake. And qualified divers can volunteer to help manage and monitor the area . What a unique and beautiful way to help the environment!

Wetlands Walk : This short boardwalk stroll helps provide a better understanding of this habitat and the species it supports. It is also a great place to look for birds!

We can’t wait to get back to the gorgeous Hill Country! Next on our list is Fredericksburg Wine Country (for the RV Entrepreneur Summit ) and a hike to Enchanted Rock! Read more of our Texas adventures here.

About the Author: Brooke Baum

Brooke is a freelance writer, editor, and content manager for various blog sites. After five years of full-time travel with her husband Buddy, they made the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii, their permanent home base. However, they still travel regularly and are always planning their next trip.

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Eric and I were JUST talking about this a couple of days ago! It’s one of the cool things in our hometown backyard that we haven’t done before. Your pictures are gorgeous–just the encouragement we need to finally get out there.

Thanks so much! Happy to help inspire our fellow travelers. 🙂 Our guide mentioned there were some nice hiking trails nearby as well, but we didn’t have time to check them out. May be a nice place for a picnic if you have time. Enjoy!

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Glass-bottom boat tours are a must-see in san marcos.

The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, formerly known as “Aquarena Springs,” is an amazingly unique entertainment and education facility that also provides important insight on fresh water, one of our most valued natural resources. Situated at the source of the San Marcos River, the center is a nationally recognized facility for environmental research using the natural Texas Hill Country ecosystem it’s established in as a lab and classroom. And with glass-bottom boat tours, visitors are sure to get a first-hand look at everything at work together!

Focusing on the importance that water plays in our lives, the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment puts an emphasis on the delicate ecosystem pertaining to the Edwards Aquifer. The property that the center sits on was purchased in 1994 by Texas State University, transforming this once very public water playground in San Marcos into the education and eco-tourism experience you see today.

Photo: Facebook/The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment

In the process of restoring parts of the facility, the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment opted to retain one of the more popular activities that used to take place at this historic Texas playground. Glass-bottom boats were a part of the original waterpark feature at Aquarena Springs, which were first utilized in 1946. These electric-powered vessels took visitors on a tour of Spring Lake, which is the reservoir that was created at the San Marcos River headwaters in the mid-19th century.

Those who took a glass-bottom boat ride back in the heyday of Aquarena Springs would get a glimpse of the many freshwater springs that rose up to form its depths and the myriad of natural marine species of Spring Lake, including its turtle inhabitants. In the present, visitors to the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment can enjoy the same experience, witnessing firsthand the wonders of the natural spring waters. Not only does this aspect provide an excellent tour experience, but it also helps to educate visitors on the importance of the aquifer and its ecosystem, but also how very fragile it can all be. Tour pricing and additional details can be found on the center’s website at the link available here .

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The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment

• Glass-Bottom Boats
• Splash into Science Snorkel Program
• Paddling Tours
• Discovery Hall
• Wetlands Boardwalk
• Spring Lake Diving
• Spring Lake Natural Area
• Online Learning Hub
• Endangered Species
• Calendar of Events
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• Share Your Memories
• Our Mission & History
• Water Wizards
• Meadows Center Fellows
• Partners & Supporters
• Scholarships
• Conference Room
• Special Event Reservations
• Spring Lake Access
• Special Events FAQ
• Technical Reports
• Climate Change
• Environmental Flows
• STEM Education
• Water Conservation
• Watershed Management and Planning
• Stream Habitat and Ecology
• Water Policy
• Archived Projects
• Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
• Field Trips & Group Tours
• Spring Lake Eco Adventures
• Outdoor Academy
• Scout Badge Days
• Family Fun Days
• Earth Day San Marcos
• Education Partners
• Education FAQ
• Ecological Research Group
• Texas Stream Team
• Watershed Services
• Water Grand Challenges
• Climate Dashboard
• Climate Education
• Hotter Than a Habanero Blog
• Fahrenheit 140° Podcast
• Springs Reports
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Explore Spring Lake

Glass-Bottom Boats Run Daily Since 1945, these historic glass-bottom boats have given people of all ages an in-depth look at the natural beauty of Spring Lake and the San Marcos Springs.

Field Trips & Group Tours We specialize in interpreter led field trips, customized to meet specific grade levels and classroom learning goals. Group tours and group tour rates are available.

Snorkel Education Program While many view Spring Lake’s artesian springs and aquatic life on a glass-bottom boat, one can now get a closer look by enrolling in our new snorkel course.

Paddling Tours Experience one of the largest aquifer-driven spring systems in the world on a guided kayak or SUP tour.

Nighttime Light Up Kayak Tours Featuring clear kayaks and underwater LED lights to give an uninterrupted view of the San Marcos Springs below.

Scuba Dive Spring Lake Our diving programs train volunteer divers to help protect a true freshwater treasure of Texas: Spring Lake.

Scout Badge Days Join us for science and nature programs planned just for Boy and Girl Scouts. Scouts will discover the unique ecosystem created by the San Marcos Springs on this guided tour!

Family Fun Days Family Fun Days are held on select Saturdays throughout the year, complete with nature-themed activities, crafts, and more!

Outdoor Academy Classes This series is designed for students K-12 to get outside and experience nature, while enjoying our exhibits and programs.

Discovery Hall Discovery Hall features a 1,000 gallon aquarium, endangered species exhibits and interactive exhibits fun for all ages!

Special Events Venue space is available at Spring Lake for weddings, parties, festivals, and other special events.

Wetlands Boardwalk Explore the diverse wildlife along our Wetlands Boardwalk on the edge of the newly restored peninsula meadow.

Explore Upcoming Events

Girl scout badge day: wonder of water.

Wetland Wonders Family Fun Day

Spring Lake Guided Stand-up Paddling Tours

Spring Lake Guided Snorkel Tours

Splash into Science is an immersive snorkeling program which provides low-impact educational fun in the spring-fed, crystal clear waters of Spring Lake, the headwaters of the San Marcos River. Spring Lake is home to spring-fed waters that remain a constant 72 degrees year-round, seven endangered and threatened species, and one of the longest continually inhabited sites in North America. This program aims to connect guests to the wonders of our local ecosystem and our relationship with the environment.

The introductory course will include:

• Introduction to the unique history and habitat of Spring Lake
• All related equipment and basic snorkeling skills refresher
• Guided on water tour including Deep Hole, Cream of Wheat Springs, and the Ossified Forest 

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. No outside gear will be allowed unless it is for prescription goggles. Live jackets must be worn at all times. Courses are limited to a minimum of 2 participants and a maximum of 6. For larger groups, inquiries should be sent to [email protected] .

*Military and Texas State University staff, faculty, and students who would like to book the tour at a $5 discounted rate should reach out to the Spring Lake Tours Office at [email protected] .

Participant Requirements: Snorkel tours are limited to swimmers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to swim. Comfort around deep water and experience with snorkeling is required. Participants must arrive in a clean, washed swimsuit to prevent the spread of invasive species like Zebra Mussels. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for snorkeling. A signed waiver is required for all participants stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur. Cancellation Policy: We require five business days' notice if you want to reschedule or cancel your tour for a refund. If, for any reason, we must cancel the tour (bad weather, etc.), you will be allowed to reschedule for a new date or receive a full refund. Refunds will be applied to the credit card that was used for payment. If you cannot attend your tour due to an extenuating circumstance, each case will be evaluated by Meadows Center staff for an opportunity to reschedule your tour. Parking Information: All visitors are required to display a parking permit Monday at 8 am through Friday at 5 pm to park in the Meadows Center parking lot. One-day temporary permits are available for purchase at the kiosk in the parking lot for $3. The kiosk takes credit cards only.

Teacher Workshop: Rooted in Teaching - Integrating Sense of Place into Climate Curriculum

Spring Lake Guided Kayak Tour

Spring Lake Guided Kayak Tours provides low-impact educational fun on top of the spring-fed, crystal clear waters of Spring Lake. The water here is 72 degrees year-round, home to seven endangered and threatened species, and one of the longest persistently inhabited sites in North America. This program aims to connect guests to the wonders of our local ecosystem and our relationship with the environment.

All gear will be provided by the Meadows Center. No outside gear will be allowed unless it is pre-approved. Life jackets must be worn at all times. Courses are limited to a minimum of 2 participants and a maximum of 8. For larger groups, inquiries should be sent to [email protected] .

Participant Requirements: The Spring Lake Kayak Program is limited to paddlers aged 12 and up. Participants must be able to paddle their own boat. Comfort around deep water and experience with kayaking is required. All participants should be in good mental and physical fitness for kayaking. A signed waiver is required for all participants stating that they will not hold Texas State University or the Meadows Center liable for any injury that may occur. Cancellation Policy: We require five business days' notice if you would like to reschedule or cancel your tour for a refund. If, for any reason, we must cancel the tour (bad weather, etc.), you will be given an opportunity to reschedule for a new date or receive a full refund. Refunds will be applied to the credit card that was used for payment. If you cannot attend your tour due to an extenuating circumstance, each case will be evaluated by Meadows Center staff for an opportunity to reschedule your tour. Parking Information: All visitors are required to display a parking permit Monday at 8am through Friday at 5pm to park in the Meadows Center parking lot. One-day temporary permits are available for purchase at the kiosk in the parking lot for $3. The kiosk takes credit cards only.

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Do512 Family - What to do in Austin with Kids

Glass-bottom boat tours at the meadows center.

For a fun little family day trip, take the kids down to The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University in San Marcos to explore Spring Lake on a glass-bottom boat tour. Fascinating for all ages, our family loved spotting turtles, fish and the bubbling springs!

Glass-bottom boat tours are offered daily. Click here for an overview of all of the ticket options.

*Header image from The Meadows Center Facebook page

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Glass bottom boat tour - The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment

• United States    
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• The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment

We enjoyed this so much! Boats all have covers so you’re not in the sun. Our tour guide Leland was... read more

Wonderful place for those curious about underwater life. I went to this attraction when I was a... read more

Glass bottom boat tour

I went on the glass bottom boat tour of Spring Lake. James was the tour guide/boat operator. He is a student @ Texas State and he explained so much about Spring Lake, history, environmental impact etc. I was amazed about all the facts of this lake & the importance of it. The water is crystal clear & we observed many species of fish & turtles & abundant plant life

We went with our granddaughter (18 months), 3 daughters, and son in law. The best part for us was watching our granddaughter looking at the fish. She was engaged and excited. That is really all it takes to make us happy. The walk around the property was a bit hot, you would want to do this early in the morning or on a cool evening.

While passing through the area, we just had to stop by the old Aquarena Springs that we had visited in the 1970's. We rode a glass bottom boat around the spring fed lake of crystal clear water while seeing the springs below as well as fish, turtles and greenery. The college aged guide was informative and added a bit of fun to the trip. We enjoyed our trip and tried to picture the area that was the first amusement park in Texas. However we missed the mermaids and Ralph the swimming pig! After the boat ride we walked over to the old hotel which is now an aquarium and offices for the water research center.

I came to San Marcos to visit my daughter, who is a student at Texas State, and she suggested that my son and I take the glass boat tour. The tour was 30 minutes on this beautiful, clear lake, where we learned a lot about the history of it and San Marcos, and saw turtles, fish, gars, springs and etc., It was a really nice adventure that didn't cost a lot.

From the 1950s through the mid-1990s this place was known as Aquarena Springs, an amusement park with a glass-bottom boat tours, a mod space-pod tram ride, a "western town", Mermaid show (with a clown that smoked cigarettes under water (?!)) and a diving pig (!) named Ralph. There was actually a series of "Ralphs". Many of these old-timey midcentury springs attractions (most of them in Florida) have reverted back towards more a more natural theme, taken over by state parks, or in this case a college (Texas State University). Now called The Meadowlands Center, most of the ol' Aquarena kitsch has been stripped away revealing the spring's natural beauty and history in its full glory. Florida's DeLeon Springs (now a state park) had a water-skiing elephant, so a diving pig certainly fit right in with these wacky notions en vogue during a specific time in America's history. I must admit, the idea of a diving pig inspired our imagination! We would not shut up about it. Then afterwards, we had to hunt down the San Marcos Mermaid sculpture called "Ode to Ralph", featuring a Mermaid cradling the cutest little "mer-pig" ever. The only aspect of the old park that remains (besides the hotel building) is the glass bottom boat tour, still as popular as ever. The springs are crystal clear and gorgeously blue. They go out often, at specific times, and there are several boats. My family took the 45 minute "extended" tour. Lots of photo-ops, and animal sightings (mostly turtles and fish). While the park is friendly for leashed pets, no dogs are allowed on the boats, so I walked the hiking trail around the park with the dogs while they were on the tour. Inside the large building overlooking the springs there is an aquarium exhibit with various local fish, turtles, eels and the famous salamanders native to the area. You can take the elevator or the stairs up to the roof for a great view of the springs from above. There are tables and chairs on the roof if you want to soak up some sunshine. Fascinating and beautiful spot to spend an afternoon.

Never cross my mind that the bottom of a Texas lake could be so pretty and seeing the underwater life is so exciting! Wetland trail is neat too.